Fasting is an integral part of Hinduism. Known as ‘Viradham’ or ‘Nombu’, fasting indicates the denial of the physical needs of the body for the sake of spirituality. Discipline of the body and mind is the foundation of fasting. Hindu devotees observe fast to please the gods, request the fulfillment of their wishes as well as seek godly intervention for the protection of the entire world. In Hinduism fasting is categorised into eight forms based on the manner in which the fast is observed and these are reclassified into twenty-seven categories. Special fasting observances are conducted for different deities. While observing fast, Hindus earnestly pray, visit the temple to pay homage to the gods and engage in good deeds such as helping the poor. Hindus break fast by serving the first portion of food to the deities and provide another portion to a crow.